Around 60–70% of cats carry the gene that makes them respond to catnip (Nepeta cataria), and for those cats, the effect is irresistible — rolling, rubbing, zoomies, and pure feline bliss. Whether you want a spray to refresh old toys, treats for a tasty reward, or a stuffed toy packed with the good stuff, here are the best catnip products available in the UK for 2026.
Good to know: Kittens under 3–6 months typically don’t respond to catnip, as the relevant brain receptors haven’t developed yet. For cats that don’t react to catnip, try silvervine (also known as matatabi) — it works on approximately 80% of cats, including many catnip non-responders.
Best Catnip Sprays
Catnip sprays are the most versatile option — a few squirts can revive a forgotten toy, make a new scratching post irresistible, or encourage your cat to use a specific bed.
| Spray | Key Feature | Price |
|---|---|---|
| KONG Naturals Catnip Spray | Concentrated steam-distilled oil | £6–£8 |
| Mew & Friends Catnip Spray | UK-made, organic | £7–£9 |
| SmartyKat Catnip Mist | Child-safe, eco-friendly | £5–£7 |
KONG Naturals Catnip Spray — Best Overall Spray
Made from concentrated, steam-distilled North American catnip oil, the KONG spray is potent yet mess-free. A light mist on any surface triggers an immediate response in catnip-sensitive cats. It doubles as a stress-reducer for anxious cats — spray on bedding before vet visits or car journeys. The 30ml bottle lasts months because a single spray is enough. Widely available from Pets at Home, Amazon UK, and Animed Direct at £6–£8.
Mew & Friends — Best UK-Made Spray
A British brand using organic, sustainably sourced catnip oil blended with purified water. No artificial additives. The gentle formula is safe for kittens (though they likely won’t respond until 6 months). At £7–£9, it’s competitively priced and supports a UK small business.
Best Catnip Treats
| Treat | Key Feature | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Feline Greenies Catnip Dental Treats | Cleans teeth + catnip flavour | £3–£5 |
| Bonkers Catnip Cat Treats | No artificial colours/flavours | £2–£4 |
Feline Greenies Catnip Dental Treats — Best Dual-Purpose
These crunchy treats deliver a catnip flavour cats love while the textured shape helps clean teeth and freshen breath. Fortified with vitamins and minerals. A bag costs £3–£5 from most UK pet retailers. Ideal for cats who are fussy about having their teeth brushed.
Bonkers Catnip Treats
Formulated by animal nutritionists with real catnip and no artificial colours or flavours. Most cats go wild before even eating them — the catnip scent triggers the “zoomies” response first. At £2–£4, they’re an affordable rewarding treat.
Best Catnip Toys
| Toy | Type | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Yeowww! Banana | Kicker toy | £6–£9 |
| Yeowww! Stinkies Sardines | Small batting toy | £5–£7 |
| KONG Pull-A-Partz Sushi | Multi-part interactive | £7–£10 |
| Pets at Home Catnip Mice Duo | Classic mouse toy | £3–£4 |
Yeowww! Banana — Best Kicker Toy
The Yeowww! Banana is packed with 100% organic catnip and nothing else — no fillers, no stuffing. The curved shape makes it perfect for grabbing, bunny-kicking, and wrestling. Effects typically last around 15 minutes before the cat loses interest and returns later for another round. At £6–£9, it’s a cult favourite among UK cat owners. Available from Amazon UK and specialist pet shops.
Yeowww! Stinkies Sardines
Smaller than the Banana but equally potent, these sardine-shaped toys are ideal for batting and pouncing. Each pack contains three sardines stuffed with organic catnip. Great for multi-cat households where each cat wants their own toy.
KONG Pull-A-Partz Sushi
A clever 5-in-1 design where each sushi piece separates for individual play. Every component is filled with premium North American catnip. The variety of shapes and textures keeps cats engaged longer than single-piece toys. At £7–£10, it offers excellent entertainment value.
How Does Catnip Actually Work?
The active compound in catnip is nepetalactone, found in the plant’s leaves and stems. When a cat sniffs it, nepetalactone binds to receptors in the nose that stimulate sensory neurons, triggering a euphoric response that typically lasts 5–15 minutes. After this, the cat becomes temporarily “immune” and won’t respond again for about 30–60 minutes. Eating catnip produces a milder, sedative effect rather than the excitable response from sniffing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is catnip safe for cats?
Yes — catnip is completely non-toxic and non-addictive. Cats cannot “overdose” on it. If they eat too much, they may experience brief stomach upset (vomiting or diarrhoea), but this is self-limiting. The ASPCA confirms catnip is safe for cats of all ages.
Why doesn’t my cat respond to catnip?
Around 30–40% of cats lack the gene that makes them sensitive to nepetalactone. This is entirely genetic and doesn’t indicate anything wrong with your cat. Try silvervine or valerian root as alternatives — silvervine works on approximately 80% of cats, including many catnip non-responders.
How often should I give my cat catnip?
Two to three times per week is a good frequency. Daily use is fine but may reduce the intensity of the response over time. Rotating catnip with silvervine keeps things interesting. Store catnip in a sealed bag or container away from light to maintain potency.
What’s the best catnip spray for scratching posts?
We recommend KONG Naturals Catnip Spray for scratching posts. A few squirts on the sisal surface encourages cats to use the post rather than your furniture. Reapply every few days as the scent fades.